In the energy domain, code_saturne is a key tool for thermohydraulic simulation of complex systems such as heat exchangers, cooling circuits, boilers, turbines, or nuclear components. It finely models turbulent flows and heat transfer, including transient regimes and realistic industrial configurations.

By providing detailed insight into velocity and temperature fields, code_saturne helps industry optimize thermal efficiency, reduce conservative margins, and strengthen the safety of installations. Its ability to handle large‑scale models with high‑performance computing makes it especially suited for design, optimisation, and regulatory justification studies.

In the fields of aerodynamics and hydraulics, code_saturne is used to simulate internal and external flows such as ventilation networks, pipes, channels, free‑surface flows, or multiphase configurations. It precisely characterizes pressure losses, recirculation zones, mixing phenomena, and turbulent structures, even in complex industrial geometries.

In the process industry, code_saturne is a preferred tool for modelling multiphysics systems that combine turbulent flows, heat transfer, and chemical reactions. These simulations provide a detailed understanding of equipment operation, facilitate performance optimisation, reduce operational risks, and support decision‑making during design or operation phases.

code_saturne is also used for simulating atmospheric flows and pollutant dispersion at local or industrial scales. It models the transport and diffusion of gaseous or particulate contaminants under the influence of atmospheric turbulence, thermal stratification, and weather conditions.

These simulations are employed to analyze the impact of accidental or continuous releases, assess the exposure of populations and installations, and support environmental and safety impact studies. With its high‑performance computing capabilities and advanced turbulence models, code_saturne can handle large‑scale domains with complex geometries, such as industrial sites, urban areas, or sensitive infrastructures.

Thanks to its open‑source nature, code_saturne is widely used in academic research as a platform for developing and validating advanced fluid‑mechanics models. It provides a privileged environment for studying new approaches in turbulence, combustion, and multiphysics, offering direct access to numerical models and their implementation.

In higher education, code_saturne is used to train students in computational fluid dynamics using a proven industrial tool. Its lack of licensing costs and rich documentation facilitate its integration into curricula, while preparing future engineers for professional CFD applications.